25/05/2026
As the scripture says in Luke 17:1, "It is impossible for causes of stumbling not to come, but woe unto him through whom they come.” We must be careful because offense is "one of the most dangerous traps that the enemy uses against the believer."
Offense is emotional or spiritual hurt that produces bitterness, resentment, anger, hatred, or hostility towards others. It enters our lives through various channels such as "betrayal, rejection, harsh words, neglect, false accusation, jealousy, and disappointment."
While people often recover quickly from physical wounds, "emotional wounds can be nursed till Jesus comes" unless we allow God's grace to heal us.
There are great dangers in harboring offense:
• It pollutes our heart: Bitterness "spreads like a poison." A "polluted heart struggles to hear God clearly" and prevents us from responding spiritually.
• It destroys relationships: Proverbs 18:19 teaches us that "a brother offended is harder to be won over" than a strong city. Unresolved offense can create years of unnecessary separation.
• It blocks spiritual growth: A heart filled with bitterness cannot grow freely in the things of God.
• It gives Satan access: Offense provides a channel for the enemy to pe*****te the life of a believer.
I want us to consider the contrast between two men: Joseph and Saul. Joseph faced betrayal, false accusation, and imprisonment, yet he overlooked these offenses because he knew God was at work, eventually testifying, "You meant it for evil, but God turned it for good." In contrast, King Saul allowed offense and jealousy to take root when he heard the women sing, "Saul has slain his thousand and David is 10,000." Because Saul's offense was not dealt with, his kingdom was eventually destroyed
To live above offense, I challenge you to follow these steps:
• "Know that the offense will come" and accept that imperfect people are part of life
• "Guard your heart with all diligence," for out of it flow the issues of life
• "Learn to forgive quickly," understanding that "forgiveness is freedom" and releases you from emotional imprisonment
• "Walk in love," because love covers a multitude of sins
• "Develop humility" and shun pride, as pride often makes people easily offended
• "Learn to overlook certain things" and do not let them affect your peace
Please, let us not allow these little things to hinder us. "Every root of bitterness must be taken out," for a bitter heart cannot enter the kingdom of heaven. I pray the Lord heals your heart today.